COLCHESTER United winger Kevin McLeod has put himself back in the frame for a recall after proving his fitness with a 45-minute run-out for the Reserves yesterday.

By Carl Marston

COLCHESTER United winger Kevin McLeod has put himself back in the frame for a recall after proving his fitness with a 45-minute run-out for the Reserves yesterday.

McLeod underwent a hernia operation less than three weeks ago, but he has already made a quick recovery and could be involved in the U's two Easter fixtures.

The former Swansea 26-year-old played the first half of the U's Reserves' goalless draw against visiting Oxford United at Layer Road yesterday afternoon.

He will now be looking to add to his tally of 23 appearances for the season, since his switch from the Swans at the beginning of September.

The left-winger has also weighed in with three goals, each of which helped the U's to wins over Southampton, Cardiff and Luton.

“Kevin (McLeod) came through 45 minutes for the Reserves, which was the plan,” said U's manager Geraint Williams.

“He has not felt any after-effects, so he should be available for the games over the Easter weekend.

“Tony Flynn (physio) had suggested that Kevin should have the operation at this time of the season, because of the mini-break.

“Now we have two big games, at Southend and against Leeds. They are both fighting for their lives, but my players have already rubbished any thoughts that they have just settled for what they've so far achieved this season.

“They proved that with the last two performances against Southampton and Norwich.”

Ex-Everton trainee McLeod missed both the 2-1 win at Southampton, and last Saturday's excellent 3-0 victory over Norwich.

There was a gap of 15 days between these two fixtures, which gave the U's left-sided specialist time to recuperate from his operation.

The Essex derby at Southend on Good Friday, which will be screened live on Sky Sports TV (kick-off 12.30pm), is already a sell-out for home fans.

Tickets are also being snapped up quickly by Colchester supporters - contact the ticket office on 0871 226 2161 for further details.

The U's home match against Leeds United on Easter Monday is already a sell-out. The last remaining tickets were sold yesterday morning.